Cancer – Can Any Good Come From It?

These Survivors Respond With a Resounding “Yes!”

Joan Billheimer and Kaye Floyd-Parris’s lifelong friendship and commitment to amazing philanthropic work began 23 years ago when Joan was diagnosed with breast cancer.

Kaye, herself a survivor of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, visited Joan after her surgery. Joan was thirsty, and Kaye would hold an ice pop up for Joan to drink. In that moment, they created a forever bond. 

“I was diagnosed with breast cancer through a regular mammogram,” Joan reflected. “I am so blessed to have had access to that screening. I think of all those who cannot get here, and it drives me to give back to help them have access to this level of care.”

In 2007, Kaye, Joan, and fellow survivor Carol Healy were asked to Co-Chair the McLeod Health Foundation committee raising funds for the first McLeod Mobile Mammography Unit.

This new unit would bring mammography services to women living in the region’s most rural and underserved communities. 

The dedicated trio and their team went to businesses and individuals explaining how lives can be saved through early detection.  

Sixteen years later, their successful campaign has ensured thousands of women all over the region have access to this lifesaving test.

Kaye and Joan also established the Colors of Cancer Benefit in 2006. What began with a few friends gathering for an italian dinner has evolved into a major community event raising significant funds for organizations supporting cancer patients, including the McLeod Foundation’s HOPE (Helping Oncology Patients Everyday) Fund.

This past year, Kaye learned she would once again be forced to fight cancer. 

This time, it was lung cancer. The Colors of Cancer event was planned for a few weeks following the news, but Kaye was unable to attend. 

She asked those who wished to help her to instead give to support the Colors of Cancer event.

Kaye’s daughter, Lindsay, facetimed her from the event. Kaye’s voice was shaky as she shared how amazing it was to see the outpouring of love and support given in her honor. 

Today, Kaye has completed her treatment and is doing well. She is already back working with Joan to plan the next great event.

“I have always felt like this community has been so good to me,” Kaye passionately shared. “It’s extremely important for all of us to give back from the heart.”